National Wellness Month: 5 Tips to Keep your Pet Healthy

We love our pets like family, and we want them to live long, healthy lives. October is National Pet Wellness Month, a perfect time to re-evaluate your furry friend’s health and lifestyles.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) launched National Pet Wellness Month in 2004 to educate pet parents on the importance of regular pet wellness exams and preventative healthcare. This month-long initiative takes place every October. 

We humans must look after our pets’ health and make wise choices since they cannot speak for themselves.  Here are some tips to keep your pet healthy all month long and throughout the year.

1. Schedule a Visit with your Veterinarian

Age related health problems are going to show up sooner in our pets than in us humans. The best way to stay on top of your pet’s health is to make sure he or she has, at minimum, an annual check-up with the vet.

Twice-yearly visits for a thorough check-up, particularly for senior pets, can be a good idea. An exam every six months provides the opportunity for early detection, treatment, or prevention of potentially serious or life-threatening conditions.

2. Watch your Pet's weight

Many pets can develop weight issues after adopting a more relaxed lifestyle. Managing your pet's weight can be an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Obesity in pets can be associated with many severe health conditions, including:

• Diabetes
• Osteoarthritis
• Endocrine disorders
• Respiratory disorders
• Liver disease
• Kidney disease
• Reduced life expectancy

3. Don’t Skip Exercise

All pets require daily physical exercise to keep them living their best lives.

Not only does physical activity keep animals active and limber, but it also offers some mental stimulation, which is especially critical in older pets. Exercise burns calories, so it’s a great way to help control your pet’s weight.  Additionally, the activity can boost the metabolic rate for hours.  

There are countless benefits to regular exercise! Let’s not forget that regular activity is a fantastic way for your fur-friend to burn off extra energy, thus discouraging unwanted or destructive behaviors.

You and your pet can enjoy all these perks while your pet strengthens his muscles, tendons, and bones.

4. Keep up-to-date with Pest Preventatives

When it comes to outdoor pests such as fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes, prevention is critical, even during the winter.

Depending on where you live in the country, your pet will need a regimen tailored to his location and activities to ensure he or she is protected against the diseases that pose the most threat. You can discuss the best option for your furry friend with your veterinarian when you attend your twice-yearly visits. Once you decide on a plan best for your pet, you can mark your calendar and administer your flea, tick, and heartworm preventative on schedule to avoid potentially life-threatening illnesses.

5. Invest in your Pet’s Health with Pet Insurance

What better time to protect your furry family member than during Pet Wellness Month?  MetLife Pet Insurance¹ offers dog insurance and cat insurance policies for your furry family members.  You can get a free quote below.